The Premier League cannot fast-track the process of a decision on Everton's financial fair play situation after it was confirmed that five clubs were all ready to pursue significant compensation if the Toffees survive relegation.
The Toffees were charged by the Premier League with an alleged breach of financial fair play rules in March. They have recorded huge losses of £372m over the past three years, in excess of the £105m limit that clubs can spend.
Everton, who have not been found guilty of breaking any rules, have denied any wrongdoing and strongly "contest" the charges that have been put against them. That isn't the only punishment they could face, with Leicester, Leeds, Nottingham Forest, Southampton and Burnley all eager to pursue financial compensation.
However, according to the Telegraph, the Premier League cannot intervene while the investigation is going on. Relegated Southampton and the three clubs fighting for survival alongside Everton feel that the decision behind whether the Toffees should get a possible points deduction should be decided urgently - and before the end of the season.
It is understood the timeline for ongoing contemplations is made by an independent commission and the Premier League cannot impede the process after changes have been issued. Everton have already been charged by the Premier League, having recorded massive loses since just before the Covid-19 pandemic started in 2020.
One club told the Telegraph that they are expecting the case to be resolved at the start of next season and have fears that it could be too little too late. The Premier League first raised the possibility of a points deduction on March 24 when charges were announced.
Other potential punishments include a heavy fine, spending restrictions and the Premier League's decision to charge Everton was said to be significant. At the end of last season, Burnley, who were relegated from the top-tier, and Leeds, indicated they were prepared to take legal action against Everton if charges were proven guilty.
This never materialised but Burnley are now set for an immediate return to the Premier League after winning the Championship rather comfortably, while Everton are facing the drop once again. Sean Dyche's side sit one point and one place above the dreaded relegation zone on 32 points.
They are in the midst of a real dogfight alongside Leicester, Leeds and Forest - who are all desperate to return to the second-tier. Leicester are two points worse off than Everton in 19th, with Leeds a point and a place ahead of Leicester in the table. Forest look most comfortable at the moment on 34 points in 16th.
Everton have to travel to Wolves in their penultimate game of the season on Saturday, before hosting Bournemouth on the final day of the campaign. Meanwhile, Leeds, Leicester and Forest face much tougher run-ins in their battle to stay in the Premier League.
